The CMP is used as a broad screening tool to evaluate organ function and check for conditions such as diabetes, liver disease and kidney disease. The CMP may also be ordered to monitor known conditions, such as hypertension, and to monitor patients taking specific medications for any kidney- or liver-related side effects. Listed below are the components of the 14 chemistries.
Bun (Blood Urea Nitrogen)-This test is used to measure liver function and to indirectly assess renal function and glomerular filtration rate.
Creatinine-This is a renal function test used to estimate glomerular filtration rate and to follow progression of renal disease.
Bun/Creatinine Ratio-This test is used to diagnose impaired renal function. With creatinine, BUN is used to monitor patients on dialysis.
Sodium-This routine test is used to evaluate and monitor fluid and electrolyte balance and therapy.
Potassium-This routine test is used to evaluate and monitor electrolyte balance and is especially important for cardiac patients.
Chloride-This test by itself does not provide adequate information. However, as part of a multiphasic testing for electrolytes, it can give an indication of acid-base balance and hydration status.
Carbon Dioxide-This test is used to assist in the evaluation of pH and electrolyte status.
Calcium-This test is used to evaluate parathyroid function and calcium metabolism.
Protein/Albumin/Globulin-This test is used to assist in the diagnosis of many diseases that affect blood proteins as a whole or one single fraction of protein.
Albumin/Globulin Ratio- This test is used to evaluate renal disease and other chronic diseases.
Bilirubin-This test is used to evaluate liver function.
Alkaline Phosphatase-This test is used to detect and monitor liver or bone disease.
AST (SGOT)- This test is used to evaluate the possibility of coronary occlusive heart disease or liver disease.
ALT (SGPT)-This test is used to identify liver disease and to distinguish between liver and red blood cell hemolysis as the source of jaundice.
Glucose -To determine if your blood glucose level is within healthy ranges; to screen for, diagnose, and monitor hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, diabetes, and pre-diabetes.
